Rebecca Martinez

Happy Friday!

This week, Connecticut took a powerful step forward in recognizing Military Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day.

This effort is rooted in the legacy of Command Sergeant Major Gary Sirois, a decorated veteran and Plainville native whose life and service continue to inspire action. This event was deeply personal and community-driven—from the moment Sandy reached out to me, I knew we had to act.

As a behavioral health nurse, I’ve spent years walking alongside patients who carry the invisible wounds, including veterans battling PTSD, depression, and the lingering effects of trauma. Recognizing this day will help patients feel seen, open doors to conversations that were once shut, and remind every veteran that healing is not weakness - it’s courage.

I’m especially grateful to Representative Jaime Foster for being so supportive—both in joining the press conference and in her willingness to help move future legislation forward. Her partnership means a great deal, and I look forward to working together to make this day a permanent part of Connecticut law.

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is alerting everyone of a new scam where criminals impersonate the DRS with fraudulent text messages. They claim that you are owed a tax refund and must provide banking and other information to receive the money.

The DRS will NEVER send taxpayers a text message or seek to obtain information from taxpayers via text. If you have information on a tax-related scam, contact DRS by completing a referral form on the agency’s website.

Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to reach out to DRS at 860-297-5962, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. or by email at DRS@ct.gov.

Now that fall has arrived, Connecticut is about to glow with autumn color! Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it:

• Litchfield Hills / Northwest CT: tends to peak earlier, so early October is ideal there
• Hartford & Central CT: mid‑October is often prime
• Connecticut River Valley: the color can linger a bit, making it great in mid‑to‑late October
• Coastal & Shoreline areas: later in October, sometimes up until Halloween

Click here for the full CT Fall Foliage Report so you know peak viewing times in each area of the state.

The CT Tourism Office has some great ideas on how to enjoy the season, click here for CT's Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide and links to hiking trails and click here for seven different CT Fall Foliage Drive Loops around the state and the peak times to take them.

Don’t miss your chance to soak in the season’s beauty!